Whew, another one down! The weather couldn’t really couldn’t have been beat, cool and drizzly, people were friendly, the music was great, the vibes, in summation, were sound. But the thing that struck me the most was how politically active this year’s festival felt. Artists and spectators alike speaking out against violence and genocide, flags flying and speeches made. It felt good to not feel alone with opinions like these, and Fuji Rock felt like a big, strong community.
But enough about that, on to the list!

1 – group_inou. With a bullet. Since their soft breakup some, jeez, 9 years ago I have been hoping to get a chance to see them again (or at least more than the one song they did at AC部’s expo 85, but I digress). They are simply one of the most energetic, fun and creative live acts around. They also have the best projected visuals, bar none. Thanks again AC部. If you were able to stay up until sunrise to see them on the first day of the festival I’m sure you would agree with me.
REPORT

2 – Summer Eye. Had no idea what to expect, they just seemed like a good band to cover. Like a good journalist, I did no prior investigation. The good news there is I was pretty floored with how much I liked the set! It was was like Okinawan beach bum punk. I will definitely be going to see them at a regular livehouse at the earliest opportunity, hopefully while the weather is still warm and the summer sun is still shining.
REPORT

3 – Cho Co Pa Co Cho Co Quin Quin. Other than group_inou, this is the show I was probably most looking forward to. I like their recent debut album quite a bit, and was curious how they were live. The good news is they were great. It was a fun, eclectic set and seemed very, very promising for a new band. Let’s see where these guys end up in a few years! Hopefully back at Fuji Rock!
REPORT

4 – Kraftwerk. I mean, of course. Without Kraftwerk think of all the things we would be without! YMO prime amongst them! Speaking of, the Ryuichi Sakamoto tribute mid-set was stunning. I also love the way their visuals look straight after a 1997 point and click computer game. I am honest when I say I love that. Please never change it. Also hearing Kraftwerk so cleanly out of such massive speakers was a treat. Danke schön gents!
REPORT

5 – bongjeingan. This one really, truly surprised me! It was my last show of the festival, and I was really hoping to end it with something unique and special. And Christmas came early. This Korean band was wildly fun, erratic math-y changes all over the place and just a really solid band presence. My only note would be maybe go a little easier on the guitar shredding my dudes, but even that bit was honestly a bit of fun. It was apparently their first show in Japan, and here’s hoping they come back a bunch more times!
REPORT

Honorable mention to Kim Gordon, Shibusashirasu, Ohnuki Taeko, Tokumaru Shugo, Sampha and, of course, the buskers. Until next time y’all!